Everyone suffers from a shy bladder (or paruresis) occasionally. It's just another form of stage fright. But some people are more afflicted than others. At its most extreme, shy bladder syndrome means that you are incapable of going to the toilet outside the perceived safety of your own home.

It's even worse when the company you work for has a policy of random drug testing that includes taking a urine sample. How do you persuade the person conducting the test that your problem is real rather than induced by a fear of getting caught for taking drugs?

There are various ways to overcome your shy bladder problem:

• Drink less fluid. This works but can leave you open to dehydration.
• Avoid large or busy public restrooms. Workable but this is treating the symptoms, not the cause.
• For men, using a stall instead of a urinal can work.
• Address the problem using cognitive behavior therapy.
• Persuade your doctor to prescribe anti-anxiety medication.
• Attend a workshop to specifically address your problem.
• Use a hypnosis session to gradually change your mind's fears and worries.

Whatever solution you choose (and I'd suggest a mixture of the above), it's important to know that you can overcome your shy bladder.

Find out how hypnosis can help overcome your shy bladder syndrome.